DES MOINES, Iowa — Police are asking for the public’s help to locate a missing Des Moines teenager.

The Des Moines Police Department said sixteen-year-old Alek is reported to be voluntarily absent from her east side home. She is 5’7″ with a thin build, and her last known location was the 2200 block of E. Walnut.

Efforts by family members and police to locate Alek have been unsuccessful.

Police said she is believed to be staying with friends and associates who may not be aware of her circumstances.

If you see Alek or know her location, call 911.